CLARA STEINBERG

The Eisenhower girls basketball team looks to continue its upward trend in its basketball program and head coach D.J. Steinberg can do so with experience and talent.

“We are a 2A class size school playing up in a 3A region and last year was tough,” he admitted. “We were a team with no juniors or seniors on the roster, but we finished just under .500 (10-12 overall and 6-9 in region play). It was a great season considering our roster, but this year they want more.”

The Lady Knights are led by junior Clara Steinberg, who averaged 20.2 points per game last season and received all-region and all-district honors. A threat on the outside and driving to the basket, she also led the team in rebounds.

In addition to Clara Steinberg, junior Lainey Font is also a threat, thanks to her deadly 3-point shooting and tough defense.

“When Clara and Lainey are both firing on all cylinders it’s a tough combination for teams to deal with defensively,” Coach Steinberg said.

The Lady Knights also return juniors Laney Belcher and Miranda Gates, and have added talented multi-sport athlete Tracey Jakubczak, who returns after a two year absence from the court.

“Having Tracey return is a big pickup for us, and I see her playing a central role for us,” Coach Steinberg said. “Her athleticism, coupled with her incredible work ethic at practice, will help set the tone for us this season.”

Eisenhower has not won a playoff game in 15 years, but Coach Steinberg feels they have the talent and drive to break that streak.

“We should be battling for a top spot in our region,” he said. “We have the experience, talent and drive to make that happen. These girls work very hard, not just for their team, but for their school as well.”

The Lady Knights kick off their season on Thursday when they travel to West Middlesex for a 7 p.m. tip-off.